Saskatchewan wildfires have caused widespread destruction, yet many experts believe that controlled fires can play a vital role in maintaining the health of the prairies.
Samantha Gunn, a teacher at the Brightwater Science, Environmental, and Indigenous Learning Centre near Saskatoon, shared with CBC’s Blue Sky that prescribed fire has been integrated into the center’s programs and the management of its prairie lands.
“We are striving to enhance our understanding of the Prairie we inhabit, where fire is a natural element,” Gunn explained.
Prescribed burns are meticulously planned, taking into account factors such as wind conditions, temperature, humidity, season, and time of day to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Renny Grilz, a resource management officer for the Meewasin Valley Authority, expressed empathy for the devastation caused by uncontrolled fires but emphasized the safe use of fire in managing grassland ecosystems.
Prescribed burns can help control pests, restore food sources, and enhance food harvesting areas. However, the banning of these burns under the Prairie Fires Act of 1898 instilled a culture of fear around fire usage.
Grilz, a founding member of the Canadian Prairies Prescribed Fire Exchange (CPPFE), highlighted the importance of educating the public, landowners, and managers on the benefits of controlled fires. He also emphasized learning from Indigenous practices of using fire for land management.
In 2019, Gunn collaborated with Grilz to introduce prescribed burns at Brightwater, stressing the need for a well-trained team. The CPPFE provided essential training, equipment, and resources, enabling Gunn to conduct two successful prescribed fires, which became integral to the community.
Gunn emphasized the significance of reintroducing fire to the prairies for effective land stewardship. Brightwater has integrated fire management into its core curriculum, engaging students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and fostering community involvement.
The program has not only educated students about fire science but has also inspired some to consider pursuing fire management as a career path.
Overall, the inclusion of prescribed burns at Brightwater has been a valuable addition to the program, empowering students to recognize the impact of their work in caring for the land.